Disney Cruise Line hosted local port officials and community leaders onboard the 4,000-passenger Disney Fantasy for a plaque exchange ceremony today. These ceremonies are a maritime tradition and an opportunity for the Captain and the ship’s officers to celebrate the inaugural call on a new port, as well as for local officials and leaders to welcome the ship and guests to the community.

“Everyone has been so gracious and welcoming to our guests and our crew members that we feel very much at home,” said Disney Cruise Line Captain Tom Forberg. “With its cobblestone streets, brightly colored buildings and a history that stretches back to the Conquistadors, San Juan is a compelling destination for our guests.”

The Disney Fantasy debuted earlier this year as the fourth ship in the Disney fleet. For the remainder of 2012 and through April of 2013, the Disney Fantasy will sail 14 Eastern Caribbean seven-night itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida, visiting San Juan, St. Thomas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Two special sailings hold additional holiday magic for guests, the Thanksgiving cruise on November 17, which includes a bountiful Thanksgiving Day feast with Mickey Mouse and friends dressed in traditional Thanksgiving attire, and the New Year’s cruise on December 29, which features a special party to ring in 2013, complete with music, sparkling wine in commemorative flutes and a midnight countdown.